MLB Rumors: 3 blockbuster trades for Pirates closer David Bednar
By Mark Powell
David Bednar trade package: Chicago Cubs
The Cubs were reported as possible suitors for David Bednar over the weekend. Previously seen as sellers this deadline, Chicago has performed their way onto the other side of the market. In a relatively winnable NL Central, the Cubs are very much in the mix. In fact, should they make the right affordable additions, perhaps they can even make the postseason.
Bednar, for what it’s worth, is not affordable. In fact, he’d cost the Cubs quite a bit because they reside in the same division as the Pirates. Chicago could use a true shutdown closer, and Bednar would qualify. However, the Bucs knows better than to trade a pitcher like Bednar to Chicago without charging interest. Here’s what the trade might look like.
Again, adding in a player like Hill here only increases the return. He’s likely what earns the Pirates a third prospect, or in this case Cassie.
The Bucs are short on elite pitching prospects, which is why I’ve targeted Horton in this case. At only 21 years old, he has a year or two left in the minors, but he has an elite arm. Wicks is likely closer to the bigs, as he currently pitches in Double-A. He has a sub-4 ERA there and could transition to a relief role relatively easily.